Spring is upon us…and with it, travel season! Balmy temperatures and school breaks make life on the go more appealing. But one thing that isn’t appealing is having to carry huge piles of heavy luggage. Even worse is arriving at your destination and finding you left something you needed behind!
One way to keep your pack from being overpacked is to prioritize multi-use items in your luggage – outdoor gear and articles of clothing that can serve multiple functions. Opting for articles of clothing that can be layered for shifting weather conditions, mixed and matched to make a variety of different outfits, or serve different functions is key.
How to Pack Light Using Multi-Use Outdoor Gear
Important things to consider when preparing for a trip include the weather conditions (you should always review the ten-day forecast for your destination) and what activities you plan to take part in (so you can select clothing that’s suitable, whether you plan to engage in outdoor fun like hiking, camping or kayaking, indoor museum tours, or a variety of activities).
Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing clothing and gear to take with you on your next trip:
1. Mix and match. Sticking with versatile, classic styles can make a few pieces go farther by letting you swap around your separates to create a new look each day. Lean towards a neutral color palette, solids over patterns, and simple cuts that can be casual or dressy depending on the occasion.
- The Gulfstream™ Shirt from Wylder® is an affordable, performance-designed unisex article of clothing that works great as a base layer or alone for a light layer of warmth while you’re on the water or sitting around the fire pit in the evening. Made of eco-friendly materials in the USA, the Gulfstream™ comes in a variety of solid colors and is soft, breathable, quick-drying, and flattering to both men and women.
2. Easy to layer. Opt for base layers that can be worn alone on milder days or under other clothing for cool evenings. Light outer layers can also be invaluable for providing protection from the sun and annoying insects.
- Wylder’s Arm Sleeves are so lightweight and easy to pack, you’ll hardly notice them in your bag – but you’ll sure be glad to have them when you need them! Made of light, breathable eco-friendly material, these arm sleeves come in a wide variety of stylish colors and patterns and are rated UPF50+, make them a cool, comfortable must-have for sunny days. They also help keep bugs at bay!
3. Quick drying. This is a must if you plan to go fishing or canoeing and don’t want to sit around in soggy clothes afterwards! Wet clothing also brings an increased risk of hypothermia when the temperature dips. Skip cotton fabrics for poly-blends that are water-resistant and dry fast.
- The Ridge™ Hat by Wylder isn’t your ordinary baseball cap. Sure, the classic, five-panel trucker style with broad brim is just what you need for outdoor activities when the sun is at it’s zenith, but it’s moisture-wicking lining does its part in keeping you cool, too. Perfect for fishing expeditions and beach days, this durable hat is so lightweight, it floats! Choose from a variety of colors and logos, or let Wylder make your unique design a reality with our customization feature.
4. Multi-functional. Pack a single headwear item that can be converted to meet your needs as a neck warmer, headband, sun protection, ponytail holder and more!
- Hoorag® Neck Gaiters and Headbands from Wylder® are the ultimate multi-purpose, pack light accessories. Useful in so many ways, Hoorag® Neck Gaiters (available in full and half sizes) and Headbands take up little space and are an outdoor gear game changer in every season. Comfortable, versatile, and environmentally friendly, our stretchy, lightweight Gaiters and Headbands are UV-resistant and come in wide a variety of colors and styles (*BONUS: For examples of some of the many useful ways in which your Hoorag® can be worn, check out our online video: How to Wear a Wyldr Hoorag®!)
